Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller finished second in defensive MVP voting in 2012 after a season in which he had 18.5 sacks. (Photo: Ron Chenoy, USA TODAY Sports)
The Denver Broncos could lose their best defensive player for the first four games of the season.
According to a report by ESPN, star outside linebacker Von Miller is appealing a four-game suspension for a violation of a league policy. The report did not specify the nature of the violation.
The Broncos, citing confidentiality laws, declined comment, but team spokesman Patrick Smyth told USA TODAY Sports the team was aware of the ESPN report.
"We are unable to provide any additional comment," Smyth said.
Messages left for Miller's agent at Athlete's First have not been returned.
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Miller, the No. 2 pick in the 2011 draft, finished second in defensive MVP voting in 2012 after a season in which he had 18.5 sacks. Miller has 30 sacks in his first two seasons.
With the loss of defensive end Elvis Dumervil in free agency, following a fiasco with a fax machine in March, the Broncos were looking for Miller to increase his production and take a larger leadership role on the defense. Miller's potential suspension would be an even bigger blow.
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If Miller's appeal is not successful, the Broncos will play the Baltimore Ravens, New York Giants, Oakland Raiders and Philadelphia Eagles without him.
The Broncos signed veteran outside linebacker Shaun Phillips to help account for the pass rush loss of Dumervil, but Phillips could now assume Miller's role instead. Broncos coaches listed as Miller's backup during offseason workouts, though Phillips did much of his work at defensive end.
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